Pneumatic Assisted Applicator For Drywall Tape

Abstract

The present disclosure concerns a pneumatic assisted applicator for drywall tape that utilizes ergonomic features which enhances the productivity of the applicator while simultaneously reducing strain and discomfort of the technician. The applicator exhibits an ergonomic control system to apply drywall tape to the interior wall and ceiling surfaces of a building structure. The applicator has a handheld structure which allows for the ability to utilize multiple coils of drywall tape being mounted simultaneously to the structure. Further, the applicator has a removable member for guiding drywall tape through an applicator head which allows easy access to jambed drywall tape within its structure.

Description

FIELD OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0001] The present general inventive concept relates to drywall installation. More particularly, the present invention pertains to an improved tape applicator for preparing tape drywall surfaces.BACKGROUND OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0002] Drywall installation can be provided in a variety of ways depending upon whether the project is new construction, a remodel, or a commercial building project. Most commonly drywall panels are affixed to the interior stud surfaces of wall and ceiling framing within a building structure. The adjoining panels result in joints located between the various pieces of drywall panels. Once the drywall panels have been affixed to the building structure, the joints between the drywall panels are typically covered with a non-adhesive backed paper tape, or in other situations they may be covered with a fiberglass reinforced taping product. The paper or fiberglass reinforced tape is adhered to the drywall surface with a thin layer of drywall compound that is applied wet between the tape product and the drywall panel surface. The tape is adhered to the drywall panel surface during the drying process. After the tape dries, one or more smoothing coats of additional drywall compound are applied in a manner to smooth a thin layer of drywall compound over the tape so as to blend the surface of the newly applied drywall compound onto the surrounding drywall panel surface. After smoothed, the drywall surface can be textured with an independent texturing machine or painted. When reduced production time is of importance to the construction schedule an application technician most often uses automatic taping and finishing tools such as the Ames Taping Tools system, or the Drywall Master Tool system to apply the various steps needed to fulfill the taping and smoothing process over the drywall panel surfaces. Automatic tool systems typically have a set of applicators that include a manually refillable taper machine known as an automatic drywall tape applicator, a refillable spreading device which comes in different widths, a corner roller tool that is used to embed the compound backed tape product into a corner joint, a mastic pump, a corner smoothing tool and various handles that the application technician uses to apply pressure between the appropriate automatic tool and the drywall panel surface. Each applicator is filled with drywall compound using a manual hand pump situated within a bucket of drywall compound. The drywall compound is exited from the application tool by way of pressure provided by the application technician through which the compound is pressure forced out of the applicator tool and onto the drywall panel surface until the application tool becomes empty and must be refilled.

[0003] The automatic drywall tape applicator used with the manual refilling process is best defined as an apparatus for applying drywall compound and tape to a drywall panel joint having an applicator head mounted on one end of a drywall compound storage device, there being a drywall compound flow path extending from an opposite end of the storage device to an outlet on the applicator head, an arrangement for delivering drywall compound through the drywall compound flow path, a roller rotatably mounted on the applicator head for contacting a drywall panel, a tape advancing mechanism secured on the applicator head for advancing a supply of tape to the outlet and to the roller, a tape severing device connected to the applicator head for cutting the tape, and a corner wheel assembly moveably mounted to the applicator head. This automatic drywall tape applicator applies a limited length of paper tape to the joints between the drywall panels before it needs to be refilled.

[0004] During the taping process one hand of the application technician supports the rearward end of the automatic drywall tape applicator apparatus while simultaneously operating a corner wheel trigger that extends a corner wheel located at the opposite forward most end of the device. The corner wheel presses the paper tape into a corner as it is being rolled along an angled drywall panel joint. The application technicians second hand supports an advance and cutting control handle sleeve located circumferentially on the forward section of the apparatus. To advance a new piece of tape required to start another application of tape to the drywall panel the application technician moves the sliding sleeve forward toward the front end of the automatic tape applicator. The application technician pulls the sliding sleeve back in the direction of the corner wheel trigger to cut the tape.

[0005] During the application of paper tape with an automatic drywall tape applicator, dual roller wheels located at the forward end of the device are pressured onto the tape and drywall panel surface that pulls the tape from a centrally mounted tape roll and onto the drywall panel surface while drywall compound is simultaneously applied between the tape and the drywall panel surface.

[0006] Within the taping head structure of the automatic drywall tape applicator the dual roller wheels are individually mounted on opposite ends of a rotating axle support that acts as a winding member by which a cable is drawn onto the mid-section of the axle as the dual roller wheels rotate along the application surface. At the opposite end of this cable a plunger unit is mounted that slides up the material reservoir sleeve of the automatic taper forcing drywall compound toward the forward end of the automatic drywall tape applicator after which the drywall compound is dispensed on to the paper tape. With the disadvantage of having to refill the automatic taper each time the applicator empties of drywall compound the application technician is unable to provide an efficient manner of application as the application technician must stop the application of tape, walk back to the material reservoir, and manually pump compound into the taper once again. The application technician commonly travels from the point of application back to the hand pump more than 100 times in an 8-hour workday. Many attempts to remedy this refilling process have been pursued by inventors that have attached remote pumps to tape application tools by way of a hose that provides a continuous flow of drywall compound from a material reservoir to the point of application.

[0007] This process is known in the field as a Continuous Flow System (CFS). Different CFS systems offer a variety of ways to accomplish the taping, smoothing and texturing process to drywall panel joints. Depending on the tools that are supplied by the manufacturer, one CFS system known as the Ames CFS System includes manually operated taping and smoothing tools that attach to the end of the compound supply hose. Apla Tech has patented a refillable type of tape applicator that is filled with drywall compound from a remote pumping station and utilizes a tethered air source to compress air within its taper structure behind a plunger that pushes against the contained drywall compound and onto the paper tape to be applied to the drywall panel surface. Below, several groups of patented drywall tools have particular relevance to the benefits the invention offers to the drywall industry. The following list of patents are referenced in groups for easier clarification to those reviewing this application. These groups of patents include Automatic Taping Tools, Continuous Flow System (CFS) Tools, and Other.Automatic Taping Tools

[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 2,815,142 patented by R. G. Ames on Dec. 3, 1957 is the original automatic taper that is used in the drywall industry today. Though some minor changes have occurred in later versions, this patented design provides virtually all of the functional concepts used in all modern automatic tapers regardless of the manufacturer FIG. 1.

[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 4,090,914 is offered as an automatic tape applicator as is typically operated in the drywall industry. Though this patent offers minor improvement within the parameters of a typical automatic taper design, the following items relate generally to an automatic taper as may be relevant to the invention. FIG. 1 item 12 (of U.S. Pat. No. 4,090,914) is identified as the head of the apparatus. FIG. 1 item 10 (of U.S. Pat. No. 4,090,914) designates the material reservoir sleeve. FIG. 8 items 29 (of U.S. Pat. No. 4,090,914) specifies opposing roller wheels used to embed the tape and mastic onto the panel surface as were previously described. FIG. 9 (of U.S. Pat. No. 4,090,914) provides illustrations of the following relevant components of the standard automatic taper. Item 77 a creasing roller, Item 38 a shaft, Item 37 a cable, and Item 13 denotes a piston. Item 36 illustrates a cable drum by that the cable 37 is wound. As cable drum 36 rotates it pulls the piston 13 up a long hollow barrel 10 shown in FIG. 1. Item 37 (of U.S. Pat. No. 4,090,914), the plunger cable will break after prolonged use causing the application technician to stop production whereby he removes a stop ring 14 (FIG. 1) the piston 13 and the plunger cable 37 from the roller drum 36. He then replaces the broken cable 37 with a new cable, reinstalling one end of the cable 37 to the cable drum 36 and the other end of the cable 37 to the piston 13. Additional repairs are often needed involving a second cable 82 that is described as a highly flexible and partly thin aluminum strip, mounted in conjunction with a flexible cable that connects lever 84 to a tension spring 85 by way of cable 82. Spring 85 will also become fatigued and break after extended use. The process of removing cable 37 with piston 13 and cable 82 along with lever 84 and stop ring 14 found in FIG. 1 (of U.S. Pat. No. 4,090,914) is well known in the industry and is standard procedure in the maintenance and upkeep of the apparatus. Another disadvantage with this design includes the physical pain that can be encountered by the application technician after prolonged wrist engagement with lever 84, FIG. 1 (of U.S. Pat. No. 4,090,914), by providing continued corner wheel pressure during the angular taping process. FIG. 15 (of U.S. Pat. No. 4,090,914) provides a graphic representation of the working relationship between the compound supply that is specified as the reservoir in the drawing along with the hand pump 135 and the automatic taper tool 12 during the filling process. The handle 136 is physically manipulated in an up and down motion to transfer drywall compound from the reservoir tank through the pump 135 into the automatic taper 12 resulting in barrel 10 being filled with drywall compound.

[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 5,611,243A FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 stipulates a method for advancing the material plunger along the supply tube of an automatic tape applicator by use of a complicated mechanism capable of providing the stated function, but with an overabundance of parts and pieces unnecessary to the function of the invention. The invention eliminates this apparatus entirely, making it irrelevant to the operation of the invention. While offering various alterations to the original design, other patents that are comprised of essentially the same structural components of the of the automatic taper and suffer the same integral shortcomings as those mentioned above include U.S. Pat. No. 7,624,782B2, US20110290422, U.S. Pat. Nos. 10,569,292B2, 10,195,636B2, and 4,086,121.Continuous Flow System (CFS) Tools

[0011] In the scope of applying drywall compound through a hose feeding from a remote reservoir being located some distance from a handheld application tool, the industry calls this technology a “Continuous Flow System” or “CFS Tools.” Being comprised of differing handheld devices, the application technician holds an appropriate application tool with two hands as is needed to physically manipulate the proper tool in accordance with the task at hand. Leading from the material point of entry within the structure, drywall compound is forced from the entry point, through a supporting member which is referred to as a handle, afterward reaching the application tool and is consequently fed through the application tool conforming to the inner passages of said application tool after which the drywall compound is forced onto the surface areas of the wall and ceiling panels.

[0012] US20110297326A1 is titled, “HANDLE SYSTEM FOR FINISHING TOOL” and provides various methods for transferring drywall compound from a material valve to a tool located at the point of application. In US20110297326A1 FIG. 1, item 102 denotes a handle body having a “non-round, ergonomic shape that permits a user to better resist torque tending to rotate the handle body 102 in his / her hands during use, thereby providing the user with improved control over the handle body 102” as is stated in paragraph 0027 of the “BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS” section of US20110297326A1. FIG. 9, FIG. 10, FIG. 11, FIG. 12, and FIG. 13 provide several different options for a handle configuration which contains two independent internal channel areas providing passageways through the longitudinal length of each handle design. Each configuration is disadvantaged by semi parallel smooth contours on its external surfaces which results in a less than optimal gripping surface area being placed into the palm of the application technician requiring significant pressure in a force manner which is greater than is necessary, resulting in physical strain and increased muscle fatigue to the forearms of the application technician. While the “non-round” term is used as previously mentioned, it is far from an optimal configuration which is intended to provide an ergonomic leveraging and comfortable way of manipulating a handheld application device.

[0013] U.S. Pat. No. 4,127,434 patent assigned to Corban Industries FIG. 6 specifies item 32 as a normally open single acting air cylinder that is contracted under air pressure in its normal state of operation. Upon valve activation by the application technician, air pressure is discontinued to the air cylinder and a spring extends the corner wheel 31 via cable 33 allowing said corner wheel 31 to embed paper tape into a drywall panel angle joint. The utilization of a spring to extend the corner wheel is an inherent shortcoming as a mechanical spring will not provide enough tension on the corner wheel mechanism to allow it to operate at full extension after the spring loses tension over a period of time, thus being no longer capable of extending fully. Overuse may also result in the eventual breaking of the mechanical spring. Another inefficiency becomes evident when evaluating the use of pneumatic pressure to provide force against a piston, item 105, FIG. 9 (of U.S. Pat. No. 4,127,434) to dispense drywall compound through a mud line, item 28, FIG. 9 (of U.S. Pat. No. 4,127,434) which is located within a structural apparatus that is positioned upon the lower back of the operating application technician, as shown in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 (of U.S. Pat. No. 4,127,434). The apparatus also causes physical discomfort to the application technician after the prolonged bending over, stooping and occasional kneeling that is encountered during the taping of drywall seams in areas such as closets, under stairways, and when working from a ladder or scaffolding.

[0014] U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,105,490A, and 4,208,239A are improvements to the same pneumatically supplied taping applicator assigned to Corban Industries that was mentioned in the previous description of U.S. Pat. No. 4,127,434.

[0015] U.S. Pat. No. 7,621,309B1 is titled Pneumatic Drywall Taper and defines itself as “a drywall taper that includes a hollow storage body for holding a supply of drywall compound, and a movable plunger disposed within the storage body and engageable with the drywall compound. An applicator head is connected to a top end of the hollow storage body with the applicator head having a drywall compound passage formed therein.” FIG. 11 of U.S. Pat. No. 7,621,309B1 provides an illustration depicting physical components of the mechanical corner wheel assembly containing items 108, 107, 106, 110, 104 and 101, mounted to the applicator head. Engagement of the creaser wheel 106, shown in FIG. 1 (of U.S. Pat. No. 7,621,309B1) is provided by way of a hand operated sliding sleeve FIG. 1, item 34 (of U.S. Pat. No. 7,621,309B1) being circumferentially disposed upon the tubular storage body item 14, FIG. 1, (of U.S. Pat. No. 7,621,309B1). The tape advancing mechanism and tape severing functions are engaged by the manual forward gliding motion of the sliding sleeve FIG. 1, item 34 (of U.S. Pat. No. 7,621,309B1). A significant fault with the design occurs when the tape that has been applied into an angular joint pulls away from the corner and falls to the floor. This can happen when the corner wheel is unable to make full contact with the tape and is thus incapable of embedding the tape into the corner surfaces of the drywall corner properly. With the inventions requirement to manipulate the sliding sleeve forward to extend the corner wheel, it limits the overall reach of the corner wheel since the full extension of the corner wheel when measured from the floor is limited to the overhead reaching height of the application technician's hand being engaged with the sliding sleeve in the forward one third section of the apparatus. As a result the overall height of the creaser wheel is much lower than a standard automatic tape applicator where the application technician engages the corner wheel system at the rearward most portion of the automatic tape applicator and is able to lift the contact point of the corner wheel much higher by pushing the apparatus upward from the further most location away from the corner wheel while the opposite hand is also engaged with the taper at a lower position on the apparatus than with this design. Still another short coming occurs with the unnecessary activation of the tape advance mechanism when additional tape is not required such as reaching out to use the corner wheel as a pushing member to reattach tape over a drywall panel joint that may pull loose before it falls from the joint and onto the floor of the working area. Unnecessary activation of the tape advance mechanism when only wanting to engage the corner wheel results in an avoidable length of tape being expelled from the taper when it is unintended to apply to a panel joint. In addition, the needless employment of the tape advance mechanism creates premature wear and shortened life of the components that comprise the tape advance mechanism.

[0016] Claim 17 (of U.S. Pat. No. 7,621,309B1) contains a section that reads, “. . . a delivery tube disposed in the storage body for delivering drywall compound completely therethrough, the delivery tube having a first end connected to a drywall compound supply assembly fed directly by a source of pressurized drywall compound, and a second end opposite the first end connected to and in communication with the applicator head . . . ” In FIG. 18 an internal delivery tube 222 is provided to transfer drywall compound from a source of pressurized drywall compound through a handle for controlling the admission of pressurized drywall compound therethrough (as stated in claim 21). The delivery tube is located internal of the storage body being mechanically affixed to a solid adapter end 226 at its rearward end and at its forward end at a tubular feed adapter 240 that is affixed to the applicator head 22. Pressurized drywall compound is supplied by source 238 through supply line 236 and is fed to in-line valve 232. The handle 234 on in-line valve 232 acts as an on / off and volume control to selectively allow an amount of drywall compound flow at a certain pressure as dictated by needle valve control 230 to move through the apparatus 10′ noted in FIG. 18 (of U.S. Pat. No. 7,621,309B1). Drywall compound 28 (FIG. 19 of U.S. Pat. No. 7,621,309B1) entering the in-line valve 232, FIG. 18 (of U.S. Pat. No. 7,621,309B1) at 2,000-3,000 pound per square inch will be stepped down by the internal restriction in the needle valve 228 (of U.S. Pat. No. 7,621,309B1) to a pressure of at least 40-50 pounds per square inch. In FIG. 19 (of U.S. Pat. No. 7,621,309B1) the pressurized drywall compound 28 then flows continuously through live swivel 224 of FIG. 18, the delivery tube 222, FIG. 18, and the feed adapter 240, FIG. 18 (of U.S. Pat. No. 7,621,309B1) to applicator head 22. Drywall compound flow entering the applicator head 22 (FIG. 18 of U.S. Pat. No. 7,621,309B1) is metered uninterruptedly through the passage 202 (FIG. 20) in the groove 244 (FIG. 20) and plug 242 to discharge opening 218 (FIG. 20) until the handle 234 (FIG. 18) on in-line valve 232 (FIG. 18) is disengaged to stop the supply of drywall compound 28 (FIG. 19) from source 238 (FIG. 18). Another shortcoming with this design involves the handle 234 when operating in conjunction with inline valve 232 has no ability to interact with the process of extending the corner wheel. Another shortcoming is the method by which the flow of drywall compound is restricted using the needle valve control is unnecessarily expensive and can be accomplished in a more efficient manner.

[0017] U.S. Pat. No. 2,323,963 is a hose supplied tape applicator that was invented by R. G. Ames who was also the first inventor of the automatic tape applicator that was outlined above. FIG. 1 specifies the general construction and location of a manual cutting mechanism indicated generally at D. To cut the tape the application technician pulls knob 34b causing knife 31 to be drawn across a perpendicular path of the tape severing the material. Mud valve 29 is a manual valve operated by the fingers of the application technician. This early taper has no tape advancing function nor corner wheel apparatus to fold paper tape into an angular fitment. This invention also exhibits a guillotine-type cutting blade which is manually operated. The specification of U.S. Pat. No. 7,621,309B1, at paragraph 3 beginning with, “Referring to FIGS. 2, 4, and 14-16 . . . ” it states, “The knife segments 132,134 define an angled, downwardly bent, moveable knife edge 140 which is slidably engageable against a stationary knife edge 142 mounted between front ends of the side portions 120, 121 on mounting plate 114. The knife edge 142 is spaced from the forward end 139 of the slide plate 128 to form a gap through which the tape 30 is passed.” The manner of function which is described entails a bent cutting edge 140 having a direct frictional relationship against slide plate 128 resulting in a blade function which is operating along a single linear plane. This design is inherently inadequate as a bent blade combined with a single plane of action does not provide a method of self-sharpening during the operation of its function.

[0018] U.S. Pat. No. 2,502,499 is the second hose supplied tape applicator invented by R. G. Ames. This version incorporates a rotatable disc 74 mounted on arm 57 at 75 notated in FIG. 11 to crease the tape when actuated by pulling on the L shaped arm 61 (FIG. 3). Lever 21 (FIG. 2) supplies tape to the end of the tool. Valve 9 is opened (FIG. 1) to close the circuit from the battery 56 to the motor 52 that rotates the gear pump 50 to deliver mastic under pressure to supply mastic through the apparatus and onto the tape. Lever 32 FIG. 2 cuts the tape. While this design was the height of drywall technology at its time, it has no significant relevance to the invention.

[0019] U.S. Pat. No. 3,116,195 by Wesley D Lathrop and Alfred Castle is a hand operated tape applicator that utilizes various levers and valves to operate a hose supplied drywall tape applicator. It's noted that in FIG. 5 a manual valve 60 is provided with a control handle 64 and a material screw adjustment 66 for facilitating the flow of compound from the mud supply hopper identified as 46 in FIG. 2 to the dispensing member 62 identified in FIG. 4 by way of hose connector 58 identified in FIG. 1 and FIG. 3. FIG. 1 also identifies corner wheel lever 162 that is pulled in a rearward motion to engage a corner wheel 166 identified in FIG. 4 with the first face 42 of tape 21 opposite to where tape is applied to a drywall panel joint as identified as 14 FIG. 1. When the application technician 12 draws the handle 114 (seen but not identified in FIG. 1 and is identified in FIG. 6) rearwardly, a blade 78 identified in FIG. 4 is projected through the opening 120 so as to sever the tape forward from the tape supply roll 20 identified in FIG. 5. The application technician then pushes forward on the handle 114 so as to allow the spring portion 138 identified in FIG. 4 to eject the tape 21 that is still integral with the supply roll 20 FIG. 5 through the chute defined by plates 30 and 32 into engagement with the roller 40 past the mud dispensing member 62. This allows the application technician to begin a new application of drywall tape onto the surface of another joint. As the design requires manual function to actuate its various purposes, it is a cumbersome and outdated method of tape application when compared to the invention. In section 70 of the specifications the following description is noted referring to FIG. 1, “The applicator 10 includes a tube frame 16 defining an offset portion 18 therein.” An additional shortcoming is in this design is that noted “offset portion 18” contains four 90 degree turns to compensate in an offset manner for the width of the drywall tape roll, interrupting a straight linear flow of drywall compound through its tube frame 16. While geometrically it seems that four 90-degree turns would be required for the offset of the drywall tape roll, in practical application, the user detects no significant disadvantage to using two 90-degree turns instead to compensate for the width of the drywall tape, thus reducing production costs while providing less restriction to the flow of drywall compound.

[0020] U.S. Pat. No. 6,209,609B1 provides a pole mounted apparatus designed to apply covering material to a surface. There is no availability within its structure to also apply drywall compound to the tape or sheeting material before it is applied to a drywall panel joint. In the drywall trade there is an occasional requirement to apply adhesive backed fiberglass mesh tape to a joint surface. This invention could be very conducive to that purpose but not in any way is it comparable with the invention.

[0021] U.S. Pat. No. 6,294,034B1 is a manual tape applicator that is mounted at the end of a hose with its tape roll fitted to the waist of the application technician. Apparently, its purpose was to provide a low-cost tool without the need to be refilled. It has no way of functional compatibility with the invention.

[0022] U.S. Pat. No. 6,540,856B2 is another handheld taping device that has manual apertures designated to provide functions required to cut the tape, advance the tape remaining in continuous relationship to the tape supply roll, apply drywall compound to the tape and thus provides another method to apply drywall tape to a joint surface. Though it is designed to utilize drywall compound supplied from a remote source, it has no technological relevance to the invention.

[0023] U.S. Pat. No. 8,863,807B2 provides an improved corner wheel operation that functions in unison with a drywall tape applicator having a remote source of drywall compound implementing a sliding cylinder sleeve to cut and advance the drywall tape before the drywall tape is applied to the joint surface in a manner very similar to the standard automatic drywall tape applicator. Operational functions of the invention are utilized by way of engagement through direct pressure applied to individual levers or to its sliding member, each receiving operational guidance in direct relation to the amount of physical pressure that is provided by the application technician. Concisely stated, the more pressure the application technician provides to the linear functions of the various levers or to its sliding member, the more pressure the actuated function receives. This results in fluctuating management of the taping process as the application technician slows down becoming more fatigued as the workday progresses.

[0024] U.S. Pat. No. 9,481,000B2 is a manual flow lever used in conjunction with a hose fed material supply source that supplies various attachments known in the drywall trade. A similar approach is utilized in patent U.S. Pat. No. 7,621,309B1 as stated above.

[0025] U.S. Pat. No. 10,000,048B2 is titled,“A taping tool having improved tape advance.” The system is unnecessarily expensive to manufacture and is not relevant to the advantages offered by the invention.

[0026] U.S. Pat. No. 4,080,240 is a handheld drywall tape applicator that is connected to the end of a hose by which manual levers are manipulated to provide a process that governs the application needed to install drywall tape to a wall, ceiling, or angular surface. It has no relevance to the purpose of the invention FIG. 1.

[0027] Included with the application located in Appendix One are two photos taken of a drywall technician (titled, “Robert Ames Taper Right Angle Handle One and Robert Ames Taper Right Angle Handle Two”), the person referenced in the photo is believed to be Robert (RG) Ames (previously mentioned) operating a handheld CFS taping device. In his right hand he controls the apparatus with a handle that is protruding from the longitudinal axis of the device in a strictly perpendicular manner. A similar handle configuration can be found in Robert Ames U.S. Pat. No. 2,502,499 item 6 and with item 30 in Henry D. Sweeny's U.S. Pat. No. 4,707,202. The weakness in both of these perpendicular angle designs is that the application technician experiences wrist and forearm fatigue during the process of reaching high wall and ceiling angle joints and when applying tape to ceiling surfaces.Other

[0028] U.S. Pat. No. 5,535,926A FIG. 1 is a single acting drywall pump utilizing air pressure from a remote source to apply drywall compound to a drywall surface. Claim 2 states, “The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the mastic directing means is a wand having a receiving port to receive the mastic from the pump, the wand having a nozzle in communication with the receiving port so that the mastic can flow out of the wand and onto the selected surface.” While the apparatus does provide a method of attachment to a nozzle in communication with a mastic supply, there is no capacity to regulate the flow of mastic from the apparatus nor is there an ability to apply tape to the joints located between drywall panels and has no relevance to the invention.

[0029] Thus, it would be desirable to provide an improved tape applicator for preparing drywall surfaces that fulfills the following requirements and overcomes some or all of the aforementioned shortcomings, unlike the prior art. Such an improved tape applicator device is preferably configured to:

[0030] a) Provide a handheld structure with a secondary way for achieving an extended reach capability.

[0031] b) Provide a handheld structure which provides a way for enclosing pneumatic conduit within an independent housing structure being in parallel vicinity to a material sleeve.

[0032] c) Provide a handheld structure which enables the ability to contain multiple coils of drywall tape simultaneously.

[0033] d) Provide a replaceable way of containment on a handheld structure which allows for the unwinding of drywall tape from a coil.

[0034] e) Provide a way for retaining a replaceable member of containment for drywall tape on a handheld structure.

[0035] f) Provide a way of guiding drywall tape which allows access to jammed drywall tape within its structure.

[0036] g) Provide a way of actuator connection to a handheld structure which allows for the ability to alter the angular plane of an actuator button.

[0037] h) Provide a way for protecting pneumatic actuator s from impacts and damage caused by environmental operating conditions.

[0038] i) Provide a handle member which is affixed in a non-perpendicular manner in relation to the longitudinal axis of a handheld structure.

[0039] j) Provide a handheld structure having an offset configuration to compensate for the width of a roll of drywall tape having a minimal number of flow obstructions.

[0040] k) Provide a way for absorbing shock when encountered by embedment wheels.

[0041] l) Provide a way to engage the linear movement of a creaser wheel by way of a rear mounted linear actuator being double acting.

[0042] m) Provide a source of regulated pneumatic pressure to activate a corner wheel linear actuator.

[0043] n) Provide a corner wheel linear actuator having a single point of anchorage being on one side of a corner wheel assembly.

[0044] o) Provide a way for extending a corner wheel by use of an ergonomic pneumatic actuator circuit having more than one pneumatic actuator within its configuration.

[0045] p) Provide a way to present a variable flow of drywall compound on to the drywall tape.

[0046] q) Provide a way to apply a deposit of drywall compound onto the drywall tape during the tape advancing function.

[0047] r) Provide a tape cut off blade having direct connection to a pneumatic actuator rod.

[0048] s) Provide a tape cut off blade assembly having a pneumatically actuated self-sharpening feature.

[0049] t) Provide a cut off blade assembly having primary and secondary edges with the primary edge making contact with said cut off blade secondary edge of a cutting die in a linear manner moving laterally along both cutting edges of the cut off blade assembly producing a single point of contact as it transverses linearly along the cutting blade contact edge simultaneously in a rotational motion when the cutting blade actuating cylinder is being extended.

[0050] u) Provide a method for guiding drywall tape which mounts to the rear segment of a linear actuator.

[0051] v) Provide a tape advance function which incorporates the use of a double acting pneumatic actuator.

[0052] w) Provide a way of mounting a linear actuator to extend drywall tape by way of a nose mount extension.

[0053] x) Provide a drywall tape engagement device which is mounted in direct communication with an extending shaft of a pneumatic linear actuator.

[0054] y) Provide a drywall tape engagement device which contains a rotational needle contained within a rotating horizontal shaft

[0055] z) Provide a rotational needle contained within a rotating horizontal shaft that is tensioned by way of a secondary spring having a horizontal mating element.

[0056] za) Provide actuator buttons having a color code system having red for cutting drywall tape, yellow for advancing tape and green for initiating the flow of drywall compound to afford an easier learning curve.

[0057] Thus, there is a need for a new device and system of use thereof to accomplish the aforementioned goals of a-za.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0058] The present invention is drywall taping device which contains an ergonomic control system.

[0059] It is therefore an advantage of the present invention to utilize a pneumatically operated, ergonomic control system to apply drywall tape to the interior wall and ceiling surfaces of a building structure.

[0060] An additional advantage of the present invention incorporates a multiplicity of ergonomically actuated pneumatic valves that provide regulated pressure for the purpose of operating the extension function of a corner wheel assembly.

[0061] An additional advantage of the present invention incorporates air pressure to return a corner wheel assembly to a position where the corner wheel is located some distance from its extended position.

[0062] A further advantage of the present invention is to provide an adjustable pneumatic pressure regulator that is directly acted upon by an application technician to supply a moderated flow of pneumatic pressure to a linear actuator that provides spring retention against the opening of a material supply source having the ability to moderate the open volume of the material supply source by adjusting the physical pressure applied to the linearly adjustable pneumatic pressure regulator as depressed by an application technician.

[0063] A further advantage of the present invention is to provide a secondary way which allows for an extended reaching capability.

[0064] A further advantage of the present invention is to provide a handheld structure which offers a way for improved linear rotational movement by way of a secondary handle being in a non-perpendicular mounted relationship to a material chamber tube.

[0065] A further advantage of the present invention is to provide a handheld structure which employs a way for enclosing pneumatic conduit within a larger secondary conduit.

[0066] A further advantage of the present invention is to provide a rigid way of holding drywall tape upon a handheld structure.

[0067] A further advantage of the present invention is to provide a handheld structure which implements a replaceable rotational way of retaining drywall tape.

[0068] A further advantage of the present invention is to provide a handheld structure which allows for the ability to utilize multiple coils of drywall tape being mounted on the same handheld structure simultaneously.

[0069] A further advantage of the present invention is to provide a removable way of guiding drywall tape through an applicator head which allows easy access to jambed drywall tape within its structure.

[0070] A further advantage of the present invention is to provide a way of ergonomic actuator connection to the handheld structure which allows for the ability to alter the angular plane of an actuator button.

[0071] A further advantage of the present invention is to provide a way for protecting pneumatic components from impacts and damage caused by external operating conditions.

[0072] A further advantage of the present invention is to provide a way of absorbing shock which is encountered by the embedment wheels.

[0073] A further advantage of the present invention is to provide a plurality of ways to actuate the operation of the creaser wheel extension and retraction functions.

[0074] A further advantage of the present invention is to provide a way to engage linear movement of corner wheel activation by way of a rear mounted linear actuator being double acting.

[0075] A further advantage of the present invention is to provide a source of regulated pneumatic pressure to activate a corner wheel linear actuator.

[0076] A further advantage of the present invention is to provide a corner wheel assembly having a single point of anchorage on one side of a drywall taping apparatus.

[0077] A further advantage of the present invention is to provide a way for extending a corner wheel by use of an ergonomic pneumatic actuator circuit having more than one pneumatic actuator button working in conjunction to actuate a specific function being a part of its design.

[0078] A further advantage of the present invention is to provide a way for a variable flow of drywall compound utilizing an ergonomically activated linear pressure regulator acting upon a separate linear actuator having an internal spring tension which applies force against the pneumatic pressure being supplied by said ergonomic actuated pneumatic regulator.

[0079] A further advantage of the present invention is to utilize a pneumatic control actuator to apply a deposit of drywall compound onto the drywall tape during the tape advancing function of the taping head having its process being provided as a function of the application technician's activation of the tape advance pneumatic control actuator.

[0080] A further advantage of the present invention is to provide a tape cutoff blade having a self-sharpening feature.

[0081] A further advantage of the present invention is to provide a tape cutoff blade having a direct way of attachment to a pneumatic linear actuator.

[0082] A further advantage of the present invention is to provide a tape cutoff blade having a spring ladened cutting action.

[0083] A further advantage of the present invention is to provide a tape cut off blade with a linear cutting action being over centered along the longitudinal travel axis of the cutting blade secondary edge.

[0084] A further advantage of the present invention is to provide a tape cut off blade making contact with the cutting blade secondary edge during the cutting process along a single point moving linearly across the cutting blade secondary edge in a rotational motion as the cutting blade actuating cylinder is extended.

[0085] A further advantage of the present invention is to provide a method for guiding drywall tape which mounts to the rear extension of a tape advancing linear actuator.

[0086] A further advantage of the present invention is to provide a way of mounting a tape advancing linear actuator to a drywall taping device by way of its nose mount extension.

[0087] A further advantage of the present invention is to provide a drywall tape engagement device which is mounted in direct communication with an extending shaft of a pneumatic linear actuator.

[0088] A further advantage of the present invention is to provide a way for adjusting the inclination of actuator buttons to conform with the ergonomic requirements of the application technician.

[0089] These advantages and others are achieved by way of an improved tape applicator for preparing drywall surfaces comprising generally of a handheld structure containing a material chamber tube, a secondary conduit, various pneumatic conduits, multiple ways of attaching drywall tape, a multiplicity of pneumatic actuator buttons, double acting linear actuators, a way for extending and contracting a corner wheel, a way for advancing a new extension of drywall tape while incorporating a pulse of drywall compound onto the tape, a way of providing a variable supply of drywall compound onto the drywall tape, a way of cutting the drywall tape, a way of providing a self-sharpening cut off blade having a single edge of communication during the extension of a drywall cut off linear actuator, a way of extension allowing the application technician to reach higher distances during the taping process, a way for increased lateral manipulation of the invention, various activation locations by which to activate the corner wheel function, a removable way to access jammed drywall tape from within the taping head, and various hand grips.

[0090] Further areas of improvement realized in the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereafter. It should be understood that the detailed description and the specific examples, while indicating the preferred embodiment of the invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0091] The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0092] FIG. 1 demonstrates an overall perspective view of the invention.

[0093] FIG. 2 provides an uppermost view looking downward on the invention providing reference to various features of its construction.

[0094] FIG. 3 establishes a perspective of the invention specifying a way of drywall tape roll retention.

[0095] FIG. 4 Illustrates a top view looking down on a way of attaching a replaceable tape roll holder to a frame mounting plate.

[0096] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view having features of a replaceable tape roll holder.

[0097] FIG. 6 depicts a variable pressure regulated pneumatic actuator utilizing an ergonomic button configuration.

[0098] FIG. 7 illustrates new art features of a double acting linear actuator which contains the addition of an internal spring.

[0099] FIG. 8 provides an illustration of the mechanical correlation between a material flow ball valve, a material flow actuator ball valve arm, and a material flow linear actuator.

[0100] FIG. 9 is a diametric projection presenting potential routing paths for pneumatic conduit within the structure of the invention.

[0101] FIG. 10 highlights a cross sectional view of the invention containing its tape cutting components, shock absorbing embedment wheel system, tape advance components, material conduit, and tape guide elements.

[0102] FIG. 11 highlights the functional components of a tape advance assembly viewing from above the taping head.

[0103] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a tape advance assembly.

[0104] FIG. 13 provides a perspective view of an upper tape guide plate.

[0105] FIG. 14 provides a perspective view of a lower tape guide plate.

[0106] FIG. 15 entails a perspective view of an assembled tape guide assembly.

[0107] FIG. 16 Illustrates a front-end view of a tape guide assembly.

[0108] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the taping head referencing a section view provided in FIG. 18.

[0109] FIG. 18 is a sectioned view of an exposed tape cutting mechanism.

[0110] FIG. 19 depicts the centralized location of a tape cutting mechanism subsequently detailed in FIG. 20.

[0111] FIG. 20 provides contact details between the cutting edge of a tape cutting blade and a blade bearing surface and a cutting die.

[0112] FIG. 21 illustrates a retracted position of a tape cutting mechanism looking down from above.

[0113] FIG. 22 provides a perspective view of a tape cutting mechanism in a retracted position.

[0114] FIG. 23 is a view looking downward on a tape cutting mechanism showing its centrally advanced cutting edge.

[0115] FIG. 24 provides a perspective view of a tape cutting mechanism at its central linear cutting position.

[0116] FIG. 25 illustrates the fully extended position of a tape cutting mechanism viewing downward from above.

[0117] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of the fully extended position of a cutting mechanism.

[0118] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the taping head from a forward perspective of the invention entailing shock absorbing features of the embedment wheels.

[0119] FIG. 28 is a section view of the inventions handle assembly.

[0120] FIG. 29 is a section view of the material chamber tube and its corresponding pneumatic conduit tube.

[0121] FIG. 30 provides a physical representation of the improved leveraging capabilities of the invention's handle structure having dual independent housings being some distance separated from each other.

[0122] FIG. 31 depicts an adjustable actuator frame.

[0123] FIG. 32 presents an actuator rotational base.

[0124] FIG. 33 provides graphic representation of actuator rotational base being in fixed relationship with a material chamber tube and a pneumatic conduit tube.

[0125] FIG. 34 is an example of a pneumatic circuit as used with the invention.

[0126] Alternate Embodiment FIG. 35 depicts a sectioned taper apparatus comprising a sectioned taper end, a sectioned taper forward mid-section, a sectioned taper rear mid-section, and a sectioned handle section.

[0127] Alternate Embodiment FIG. 36 provides a graphical depiction of a shortened taper applicator.

[0128] Alternate Embodiment FIG. 37 provides the reader with a graphic representation of an extended taper applicator.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0129] The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit my invention, its application, or its uses. To best define the physical features of the invention, description will begin by way of FIG. 1 following the fluidic path of drywall compound as it passes through a material flow valve 113, past a rearward hand support 112 and its associated components, to the extended upper offset handle 109 and then along the forward extension of the device expounding on the various components of the invention in a (generally) linear direction. When the term “forward” is referenced to a component of the invention, the reader will recognize that reference as being directed toward an embedment roller one 102a and embedment roller two 102b extension of the invention. Subsequently, when “rearward” is used in regard to a component, the reader should note that that particular component is positioned in a location in the latter direction (in reference to the linear midpoint of the invention) toward the material flow valve 113.

[0130] In FIG. 1, item 101 references a perspective view of the preferred embodiment of the invention. A material flow valve 113 is in mechanical communication with a material chamber tube 104. A pneumatic supporting brace 305 is affixed in a circumferential manner around each orifice being on opposite sides of the material flow valve 113. Extending from the structural housing of the material flow valve 113, a material flow valve actuator arm 114 unites with a material flow valve linear actuator 115 being mechanically affixed by way of a material flow valve linear actuator clevis 907. The material flow valve linear actuator 115 is secured to the material chamber tube 104 by way of a material flow valve linear actuator securement perch 115a.

[0131] Affixed below the material chamber tube 104 is a pneumatic conduit tube 108a having physical engagement with said material chamber tube 104 by way of a mechanical standoff support 111. Said mechanical standoff supports 111 are provided in additional locations along the linear scope of the handheld structure. A rearward hand support 112 is in physical proximity to the material chamber tube 104 and the pneumatic conduit tube 108a immediately adjacent to the material flow valve linear actuator 115.

[0132] Along the distance of engagement encountered between the material chamber tube 104 and said pneumatic conduit tube 108a, extending past said material flow valve linear actuator securement perch 115a, the embodied structure which includes the aforementioned pneumatic conduit tube 108a and stated material chamber tube 104 changes to an angular directional plane sufficient to allow for an extended upper offset handle 109 realizing an elevated position located a distance above the material chamber tube 104 and its affiliated pneumatic conduit tube 108a which support a tape holder one 107a positioned in a location functionally compatible with the directional change of the material chamber tube 104 and the pneumatic conduit tube 108a and the extended upper offset handle 109.

[0133] Affixed beneath the extended upper offset handle 109 is positioned an abbreviated pneumatic conduit tube 110a having a rearward open channel 110b located within its lower extremity with an additional open channel located near the upper end of its structure (not shown). An upper corner actuator frame 105a is positioned adjacent to the extended upper offset handle 109 at a location nearer to its upper boundary having a mechanical relationship to a first corner wheel actuator button one 128a. Proceeding forward from the angular directional change of the material chamber tube 104 and the pneumatic conduit tube 108a, separate of the extended upper offset handle 109, the material chamber tube 104 and pneumatic conduit tube 108a proceed forward along the extended linear axis of the invention.

[0134] As previously stated, tape holder one 107a is affixed to the material chamber tube 104 and the pneumatic conduit tube 108a. A retainment knob 117 is centrally located between the tape holder one 107a and a tape holder two 107b being rotationally secured to a retainment knob support 116 (seen in FIG. 2). A rotational tape retainment arm 118 is centrally located between the tape holder one 107a and tape holder two 107b by frictional engagement to retainment arm support 116 (seen in FIG. 2) with said retainment knob 117 (FIG. 1). A secondary tape guide 119 extends from the lower surface of the pneumatic conduit tube 108a between the tape holder two 107b and a forward hand protector 106. Immediately forward and adjacent to the forward hand protector 106 a forward corner actuator frame 105b is affixed to the material chamber tube 104 securing a physical relationship with a second corner wheel actuator button two 128b. Extending frontward from the forward corner actuator frame 105b, material chamber tube 104 and pneumatic conduit tube 108a extend to a forward location whereby they initiate a second angular change of direction of material chamber tube 104 and material chamber tube 108a providing a forward open channel 108b within the configuration of pneumatic conduit tube 108a at its furthermost extremity.

[0135] Converging forward from the cited second directional change of the material chamber tube 104 a third downward directional change occurs after which material chamber tube 104 accomplishes a parallel relationship with the longitudinal axis of material chamber tube 104 as it is situated between its first and second directional changes. Taping Head Support Two Bracket 103 is positioned on material chamber tube 104 after the third directional change of material chamber tube 104 being affixed to a taper body housing side one 320a and a taper body housing side two 320b which is illustrated in FIG. 2.

[0136] A tape material spreading chamber 130 is located at the forwardmost site of the material chamber tube 104 and is affixed to the taper body housing side one 320a and taper body housing two 320b (shown in FIG. 2). An embedment roller one 102a is fashioned to an embedment roller base 1211 utilizing a roller axle 132. Embedment roller base 1211 is located between taper body housing side one 320a and taper body housing side two 320b (FIG. 2) employing an embedment roller base axle 1210. A tape cutting linear actuator 1216 is situated in a lower forward position of the invention between the taper body housing side one 320a and taper body housing side two 320b (provided in FIG. 2). A corner wheel extending arm 125 is rotationally affixed to the taper body housing side one 320a by way of a revolving union 129. A corner wheel 124 is positioned near the lower extreme of said corner wheel extending arm 125 utilizing a corner wheel rotational union 133. A corner wheel linear actuator 123 is attached to the aforementioned corner wheel extending arm 125 between the corner wheel rotational union 133 and said revolving union 129 with a corner wheel extending arm union 126. Located at the rearward end of the corner wheel linear actuator 123, a corner wheel linear actuator rear support 131 is in mechanical communication with taper body housing side one 320a. Positioned in a perpendicular manner between taper body housing side one 320a and taper body housing side two 320b (FIG. 2) are situated an upper tape advance guide 122a and a lower tape advance guide 122b. A tape advance linear actuator 121 is positioned in an approximate parallel relationship to the longitudinal axis of the invention having affixment to a tape advance linear actuator support 135 (FIG. 2) being located between the taper body housing side one 320a and the taper body housing side two 320b (FIG. 2) having a linear actuator affixed, guide 120 located upon the rearward mounting extension 134 of the tape advance linear actuator 121 body.

[0137] FIG. 2 provides a top view of the invention offering reference to various features of its construction. Beginning at the material flow valve inlet 307, the pneumatic supporting brace 305 provides anchorage for a pneumatic inlet port 306 being positioned within its structure. Said pneumatic supporting brace 305 is situated in physical proximity to the forward and rearward surfaces of the material flow valve 113 having the material chamber tube 104 extending forward along the linear axis of the invention. The rearward hand support 112 is illustrated in offset proximity to the material flow actuator control arm 308 being in physical communication with a material flow valve linear actuator clevis 907 with the material flow valve linear actuator 309 which is affixed to the material flow valve linear actuator securement perch 115a by way of a rearward mounting extension 134. A rearward actuator frame 303 is located opposite of the material chamber tube 104 from the material flow valve linear actuator securement perch 115a. Said rearward actuator frame 303 provides a grouping of actuator buttons including a green material flow actuator button 310, a yellow tape advance button 311 and a red tape cut off button 312 upon its uppermost surface. Extending forward along the material chamber tube 104 from the material flow valve linear actuator securement perch 115a a tape roll mounting support one 315a is fastened to the material chamber tube 104 whereby tape holder one 107a is affixed to said tape roll mounting support one 315a.

[0138] Located parallel to tape roll mounting support one 315a and along the linear axis of the invention is the extended upper offset handle 109 with the accompanying components which comprise the central hand protector 127, the upper corner actuator frame 105a with its associated first corner wheel actuator button one 128a. Retainment knob support 116 protrudes perpendicular to material chamber tube 104 centrally located between tape holder one 107a and tape holder two 107b, supporting the rotational tape retainment arm 118 being rotationally affixed to said retainment knob support 116 with the utilization of retainment knob 117. Tape holder one 107a and tape holder two 107b are constructed of a synthetic material such as UHMW plastic, polyurethane or similar. Tape roll mounting support two 315b is affixed to the material chamber tube 104 having tape holder two 107b mounted to its opposite surface.

[0139] Continuing forward along the linear axis of the invention forward hand protector 106 is shown within ergonomic proximity to the previously discussed forward corner actuator frame 105b which supports second corner wheel actuator button two 128b and an un perpendicularly mounted angular handle support 302 supporting an angular handle protector 304 being located upon material chamber tube 104 in opposite relationship with the forward corner actuator frame 105b. Forward of said angular handle support 302 and the accompanying forward corner actuator frame 105b, material chamber tube 104 changes angular direction downward as noted in the previous section description of FIG. 1 and subsequently changes in a third angular direction forward and laterally which enables the linear axis of the taping head structure 300 to align with the linear axis of tape holder one 107a and tape holder two 107b.

[0140] Forward of the changes in angular direction of the material chamber tube 104, the Taping Head Support Two Bracket 103 is presented as being affixed upon the material chamber tube 104 and between taper body housing side one 320a and taper body housing two 320b. Viewed at the forward extreme of the structure, embedment roller one 102a and embedment roller two 102b are situated on opposing surfaces of the embedment roller base 1211. Taper body housing one 320a is identified as supporting the corner wheel linear actuator 123 upon the taping head structure 300. The upper tape advance guide 122a is illustrated as being positioned between taper body housing one 320a and taper body housing two 320b.

[0141] Extending rearward from the taping head structure 300, being affixed to the tape advance linear actuator support 135, the tape advance linear actuator 121 supports the linear actuator affixed tape guide 120 utilizing its rearward mounting extension 134. Notation 301 provides reference to a tape advance assembly which is explained further in FIG. 10. FIG. 3 expounds upon the previous mention of the rotational tape retainment arm 118, illustrating its rotational capability. Tape holder one 107a and tape holder two 107b being identical in mechanical construction are mounted in 180 degree opposite rotational direction having a retainment arm ledge 506 (noted in FIG. 4) located on tape holder one 107a being below the implied horizontal center line on mounted tape holder 107a with tape holder two 107b providing a retainment arm ledge 506 (FIG. 4) located above the implied horizontal center line on the mounted orientation of tape holder 107b.

[0142] FIG. 4 provides additional detail on the mounting relationship between the tape roll mounting support one 315a and said tape holder one 107a. Tape roll mounting support one 315a is identical in construction to tape roll mounting support two 315b (not shown). The construction elements of tape holder one 107a with previously unspecified features such as a tape holder cylindrical face 505 and retainment arm ledge 506. A stainless steel sleeve (not shown) or otherwise durable material is located on the surface of cylindrical face 505 to lengthen the operational life of tape holder one 107a and tape holder two 107b.

[0143] FIG. 5 provides detail of a retainment arm ledge face 507 and retainment arm ledge 506 which are construction features of both tape holder one 107a and also of tape holder two 107b (FIG. 3).

[0144] FIG. 6 illustrates the relationship between the green material flow actuator button 310 as mounted to a linear pressure regulator 801. An extending linear pressure regulator stem 802 protrudes upward from said linear pressure regulator 801 making contact with the underside of the green material flow actuator button 310. A linear pressure regulator outlet port 803 is located on the external circumference of the linear pressure regulator 801 as a linear pressure regulator inlet port 804 is located on the bottom side of the linear pressure regulator 801 opposite the afore stated linear pressure regulator stem and accompanying green material flow actuator button 310.

[0145] FIG. 7 provides an internal view of the material flow valve linear actuator 115 exposing an internal material flow valve linear actuator spring 903 central to its construction. A material flow valve linear actuator extension shaft 906 is conveyed as extending from the body of the material flow valve linear actuator 115. A material flow valve linear actuator clevis 907 is provided in immediate mechanical communication with said material flow valve linear actuator extension shaft 906. Contained within the forward body of the material flow valve linear actuator 115 is a material flow valve linear actuator extension port 902. Within the rearward body of the material flow valve linear actuator 115 a material flow valve linear actuator retraction port 904 is provided. Contained within the forward mounting extension 134 is a material flow valve linear actuator tail mount aperture 905.

[0146] FIG. 8 is a closer look at the rearward hand support 112 as described in FIG. 1 along with its surrounding components. In addition to the previous elements that were identified in FIG. 1 the material flow valve linear actuator tail mount aperture 905 is identified in relative location to the material flow valve linear actuator securement perch 115a. The material flow valve actuator arm 114 is identified in direct contact with the material flow valve linear actuator clevis 907. Also provided are the material flow valve linear actuator retraction port 904 located in the rearward section of the material flow valve linear actuator 115 as well as the material flow valve linear actuator extension port 902 being located in the frontward section of the material flow valve linear actuator 115.

[0147] FIG. 9 is a diametric view presenting potential routing paths for pneumatic conduit within the taping head structure 300 of the invention. Reference to the pneumatic conduit tube forward open channel 108b (FIG. 1) is provided projecting tape advance retraction conduit 1123, cutting blade linear actuator retraction conduit 1116 and cutting blade linear actuator extension conduit 1117 from within its structure and through a pneumatic pass-through orifice one 1105a. Seen on the rearward side of material chamber tube 104 corner wheel linear actuator retraction conduit 1120 passes through a pneumatic pass-through orifice two 1105b contiguous to tape advance extension conduit 1122. Within Taping Head Support Two Bracket 103 pneumatic pass-through orifice 1105a is located on the fore side of material chamber tube 104 with pneumatic pass-through orifice two 1105b having location within taping support bracket 103 opposite material chamber tube 104.

[0148] Forward of Taping Head Support Two Bracket 103 corner wheel linear actuator extension conduit 1119, cutting blade linear actuator retraction conduit 1116, tape advance retraction conduit 1123 and cutting blade linear actuator extension conduit 1117 depart pneumatic pass-through orifice two 1105b and pneumatic pass-through orifice one 1105a protruding downward connecting to their associated pneumatic cylinders (not shown). Cover plate transfer channel 130b is presented in relative location to spreading chamber cover plate 130a having affixment to tape material spreading chamber 130 (FIG. 1) by way of cover plate mounting screw one 130c and cover plate mounting screw two 130d. Material back flow stop 1108 is attached to the tape material spreading chamber 130FIG. 1 with material back flow stop fastener one 1108a and material back flow stop fastener two 1108b (not shown). Tape advance extension conduit 1122, corner wheel linear actuator retraction conduit 1120, as well as corner wheel linear actuator extension conduit 1119 are displayed as coming out of upper pneumatic pass-through channels 2002 around upper tape advance guide 122a (FIG. 1) and lower tape advance guide 122b (FIG. 1) and into lower pneumatic pass-through channels 2002.

[0149] Corner wheel actuator clevis 123a connects with corner wheel extending arm union 126 to the corner wheel extending arm 125. Corner wheel linear actuator retraction conduit 1120 mates with corner wheel linear actuator retraction port 1111. Corner wheel linear actuator extension conduit 1119 affixes to corner wheel linear actuator extension port 1112. Corner wheel linear actuator 123 mounts to taper body housing side one 320a with corner wheel linear actuator supporting bolt 131a being supported with a corner wheel linear actuator rear support 131. Tape advance retraction conduit 1123 connects to a tape advance linear actuator retraction port 121b. Tape advance extension conduit 1122 extends rearward connecting with a tape advance linear actuator extension port 121a. Affixed to the rearward extension of tape advance linear actuator 121 is linear actuator affixed tape guide 120. Rear mount tape channel 120a is located within the lower body of linear actuator affixed tape guide 120. The location of tape advance assembly 1300 is referenced in relationship to the taping head structure 300 by notation FIG. 11.

[0150] FIG. 10 is a sectional view of the taping head structure 300 of the invention entailing several functional aspects of its design. FIG. 10 stipulates the immediate physical relationship between Taping Head Support Two Bracket 103 and material chamber tube 104. Positioned at the forward most end of material chamber tube 104 a spreading chamber cover plate 130a being secured to tape material spreading chamber 130 utilizing material flow outlet screw one 130c (not shown in FIG. 10) and material flow outlet screw 130d. On the rearward side of material chamber tube 104 forming to the upper surface of tape material spreading chamber 130, a material back flow stop 1108 protrudes into the rearward area of the tape material spreading chamber 130. Embedment roller two 102b is positioned on the rearward side of the illustration exposing its central orientation with embedment roller axle 1212. Embedment roller axle 1212 is centrally and rotationally positioned in the forward section of the embedment roller base 1211. Located in the rearward section of embedment roller base 1211 embedment roller base axle 1210 is specified. Upon the upper surface of the embedment roller base 1211 an embedment roller base spring two 1213b is secured at its forward connection point to embedment roller base 1211 by way of a base spring securing screw two 1214b. The rearward end of said embedment roller base spring two 1213b is secured to an embedment roller retraction bar 1214. A cutting blade linear actuator 1216 is mounted adjacent to the underside of a cutting blade linear actuator base 1206. Cutting blade linear actuator base 1206 is rotationally secured to a cutting blade base axle 1207 being spring tensioned (not shown) utilizing cutting blade linear actuator base spring retaining orifice 1209. The cutting blade linear actuator 1216 is provided extending linear movement by way of a cutting blade linear actuator extension port 1216b. The cutting blade linear actuator is provided retracting linear movement by way of cutting blade linear actuator retraction port 1216c.

[0151] In FIG. 11 a tape advance assembly is noted as item 1300 which comprises a tape advance linear actuator extension shaft 1305 by which a tape advance frame 1306 is secured. Tape advance frame 1306 has a structural characteristic maintaining a horizontal and vertical surface sufficient to act as a way of securement adequate to support various components. A tape advance rotational block one 1307a is secured to the horizontal surface of the tape advance frame 1306 by way of frictional engagement provided by a rotational block bolt one 1304a. A horizontally mounted tape advance rotational sleeve 1308 is mounted within tape advance rotational block one 1307a having a tape advance needle 1301 located in the central section of the horizontally mounted tape advance rotational sleeve 1308 (FIG. 12). A tape advance needle securing fastener 1302 is adjustably secured to and passing through horizontally mounted tape advance rotational sleeve 1308 thusly providing contact with tape advance needle 1301.

[0152] A tape advance needle spring 1309 allows the passing through of tape advance needle 1301 by way of a needle spring passageway 1310 within its forward structure better visualized in FIG. 12. FIG. 12 provides a perspective view of tape advance assembly 1300. Tape advance linear actuator extension shaft 1305 can be seen in mechanical union with tape advance frame 1306 and tape advance needle spring 1309. Tape advance needle spring 1309 is centrally located upon tape advance frame 1306 between tape advance rotational block one 1307a and a tape advance rotational block two 1307b. Tape advance rotational block two 1307b is secured to the tape advance frame 1306 through engagement with rotational block bolt two 1304b. Horizontally mounted tape advance rotational sleeve 1308 is rotationally mounted between tape advance rotational block one 1307a and tape advance rotational block two 1307b. Tape advance needle securing fastener 1302 is illustrated affixed to horizontally mounted tape advance rotational sleeve 1308. Tape advance needle 1301 passes through the tape advance needle spring 1309 by way of a needle spring passageway 1310.

[0153] FIG. 13 denotes the configuration of upper tape advance guide 122a having a tape needle passageway 122d.

[0154] FIG. 14 illustrates the locations of the tape advance tab 122c being positioned upon the lower rear area of lower tape advance guide 122b. Tape guide passageway 122e is illustrated upon the upper surface of lower tape advance guide 122b.

[0155] FIG. 15 provides the horizontal operational relationship between the upper tape advance guide 122a and lower tape advance guide 122b.

[0156] FIG. 16 illustrates a view of the upper tape advance guide 122a and lower tape advance guide 122b as they are observed in operating relationship from a forward perspective of the invention looking rearward.

[0157] FIG. 17 provides a referenced section view stipulated in FIG. 18. In FIG. 18 affixed between taper body housing side one 320a and taper body housing side two 320b Taping Head Support Two Bracket 103 houses material chamber tube 104. Taping Head Support Two Bracket 103 contains a pneumatic pass-through orifice one 1105a with a pneumatic pass-through orifice two 1105b being located within the body area of Taping Head Support Two Bracket 103 in horizontal location being on opposite sides of material chamber tube 104. A cutting die 1201 is located between taper body housing side one 320a and taper body housing side two 320b immediately forward and adjacent to upper tape advance guide 122a (not shown) and lower tape advance guide 122b. A cutting blade riding shoulder 1203 is affixed to taper body housing side one 320a by way of a riding shoulder mounting screw one 2101a and a riding shoulder mounting screw two 2101b. Cutting blade 1202 is affixed centrally to cutting blade linear actuator rod 1216a. A cutting blade extended shoulder 1205 has protracted engagement with cutting die 1201 simultaneously providing cutting blade edge 1204 lateral engagement with cutting blade riding shoulder 1203. Cutting blade linear actuator rod 1216a is shown engaged with cutting blade 1202. Cutting blade linear actuator base 1206 supports cutting blade linear actuator 1216 through engagement with cutting blade linear actuator securement lock one 1216d and cutting blade linear actuator securement lock two 1216e.

[0158] FIG. 19 provides reference to an enhanced perspective of the inventions cutting mechanism featured in FIG. 20. In FIG. 20 cutting blade linear actuator rod 1216a is positioned in mechanical union with cutting blade 1202. Cutting blade extended shoulder 1205 bears frictional engagement with cutting die 1201. Cutting blade edge 1204 is illustrated with frictional engagement upon cutting blade riding shoulder 1203 being secured to taper body housing side one 320a per riding shoulder mounting screw one 2101a and riding shoulder mounting screw two 2101b.

[0159] In FIG. 21 cutting blade retracted position top view 2801 provides cutting blade 1202 in a retracted position below and behind cutting die 1201 indicated by a hidden cutting blade edge 1204. Cutting blade extended shoulder 1205 is in frictional engagement with cutting die 1201. Opposite cutting blade extended shoulder 1205, cutting blade 1202 is likewise in frictional engagement with cutting blade riding shoulder 1203.

[0160] FIG. 22 depicts a cutting blade retracted position front view 2802 having cutting blade 1202 in a retracted position below cutting die 1201. Cutting blade extended shoulder 1205 is in frictional engagement with cutting die 1201. Retracted cutting blade point of contact 2805 identifies the contact location between cutting blade extended shoulder 1205 and cutting die 1201. Opposite cutting blade extended shoulder 1205, cutting blade 1202 is likewise in frictional engagement with cutting blade riding shoulder 1203. Cutting blade edge 1204 is indicated. Cutting blade linear actuator base 1206 is positioned below cutting blade 1202 in mechanical engagement with cutting blade linear actuator 1216 utilizing cutting blade linear actuator securement lock one 1216d and cutting blade linear actuator securement lock two 1216e. Cutting blade linear actuator piston 1216f is represented within cutting blade linear actuator 1216 in direct mechanical relationship with cutting blade linear actuator rod 1216a. Cutting blade linear actuator rod 1216a is in mechanical communication with cutting blade 1202.

[0161] In FIG. 23 a cutting blade semi extended contact position top view 2901 provides cutting blade 1202 in a semi extended position above and below and behind cutting die 1201 indicated by a dashed hidden line demonstrating the location of cutting blade edge 1204. Cutting blade extended shoulder 1205 is in separated relationship with cutting die 1201. Opposite cutting blade extended shoulder 1205, cutting blade 1202 has departed frictional engagement with cutting blade riding shoulder 1203. Shearing contact point 2804 position is designated.

[0162] FIG. 24 depicts cutting blade semi extended contact position front view 2902 in semi extended relationship with cutting die 1201. Cutting blade extended shoulder 1205 is in separated engagement with cutting die 1201 (not shown). Opposite cutting blade extended shoulder 1205, cutting blade 1202 is likewise in separated engagement with cutting blade riding shoulder 1203 (not shown). Cutting blade edge 1204 is indicated as providing a shearing contact point 2804.

[0163] In FIG. 25 a cutting blade extended blade position top view 3001 provides cutting blade 1202 in a fully extended position above and in frictional communication with cutting die 1201. Cutting blade edge 1204 is in linear communication with cutting die 1201.

[0164] In FIG. 26 cutting blade extended blade position front view 3002 provides cutting blade 1202 in a fully extended position above and in implied frictional communication with cutting die 1201. FIG. 27 provides a front view of the taping head structure 300 of the invention looking rearward. Material chamber tube 104 projects forward through the Taping Head Support Two Bracket 103. Pneumatic conduit tube 108a is viewable behind taping head support 103. Contained within the structure of the Taping Head Support Two Bracket 103 on either side of the material chamber tube 104 are pneumatic pass-through orifice one 1105a and pneumatic pass-through orifice two 1105b. Practically located near pneumatic pass-through orifice one 1105a taper body housing side one 320a is affixed by way of a body housing support anchor one 321a to Taping Head Support Two Bracket 103. Accordingly, Taping Head Support Two Bracket 103 is similarly affixed to body housing side two 320b utilizing a body housing support anchor two 321b. Spreading chamber cover plate 130a is immediately adjacent to material chamber tube 104 having secure union to tape material spreading chamber 130 implementing cover plate mounting screw one 130c and cover plate mounting screw two 130d. Cover plate transfer channel is noted at 130b. An embedment roller retraction bar 1214 is positioned in a stationary position between taper body housing side one 320a and taper body housing side two 320b. An embedment roller base spring one 1213a is secured at its rearward end point to embedment roller retraction bar 1214 having its forward connection secured with a base spring securing screw one 1214a to embedment roller base 1211. An embedment roller base spring two 1213b is also secured at its rearward limit to embedment roller retraction bar 1214 extending forward with opposite connection with a base spring securing screw two 1214b to embedment roller base 1211. An embedment roller axle 1212 is contained internal of the forward end of the embedment roller base 1211. Embedment roller one 102a and embedment roller two 102b are affixed to the invention at embedment roller base 1211 having securement member provided by embedment roller axle 1212.

[0165] Section view of FIG. 28 details the combined configuration of material chamber tube 104 as it is in mechanical relationship to pneumatic conduit tube 108a as provided by mechanical standoff supports 1111. Contained within the material chamber tube 104 drywall compound 3301 is shown. Contained within the pneumatic conduit tube 108a a pneumatic conduit assemblage 3300 is indicated.

[0166] FIG. 29 examples a distanced position of material chamber tube 104 with counterpart pneumatic conduit tube 108a. FIG. 30 contains reference to various gripping locations provided by a hand of the application technician upon material chamber tube 104 and pneumatic conduit tube 108a. An operating hand 3400 contains gripping features including a gripping palm 3401, a metacarpel shaft support 3402, a proximal phelange support one 3403a, a proximal phelange support two 3403b, a middle phalange support 3404, a distal phalange support one 3405a, a distal phalange support two 3405b, and a metacarpel bone support 3406. Additional frictional engagement is graphically implied by the skin and muscle padding of the inner operating hand 3400 as the inner operating hand 3400 conforms to the recesses of the structured material chamber tube 104 and pneumatic conduit tube 108a being separated in distance by the mechanical standoff supports 111 (FIG. 28).

[0167] In FIG. 31 forward corner actuator frame 105b is identified as having an actuator aperture mount 105c contained within its highest horizontal plane. Located within the rearward vertical plane of the forward corner actuator frame 105b actuator rotational union 105d is presented in approximate location to an actuator rotational section 105e. FIG. 32 presents an actuator rotational base 105f containing corresponding features mentioned in FIG. 31 being actuator rotational union 105d and actuator rotational section 105e. Actuator rotational base 105f is affixed to material chamber tube 104 and pneumatic conduit tube 108a (FIG. 33). Note should be made that forward corner actuator frame 105b is identical in configuration as actuator frame 105a which also contains an actuator rotational base 105f (not shown) specifically referenced in FIG. 1. In addition, rearward actuator frame 303 (FIG. 2) also contains the rotational capabilities as the forward corner actuator frame 105b (FIG. 2 and FIG. 31) and actuator rotational base 105f (FIG. 32) not otherwise noted.

[0168] FIG. 33 depicts the mounting arrangement between actuator rotational base 105f, material chamber tube 104, pneumatic conduit tube 108a with forward corner actuator frame 105b being affixed to actuator rotational base 105f by way of not formerly referenced rotational fasteners 105g.

[0169] FIG. 34 is a schematic representation of the pneumatic components required for the function of the invention containing itemized pneumatic conduit(s) noted as items 4001a. In those areas within FIG. 34 where the density of components and identifying numerals prevent additional notation, the term “implied pneumatic conduit” will be used in the description to recognize a solid line interconnecting the designated mechanisms. In FIG. 34 a pneumatic pressure source 4001 is connected to a corner wheel pneumatic actuator two inlet port one 4003a via a pneumatic conduit 4001a. An implied pneumatic conduit exits corner wheel pneumatic actuator two outlet port two 4003b at one end connecting to a shuttle valve inlet port one 4005a at its opposite furthest most location. An additional implied pneumatic conduit is fixed at one end to corner wheel pneumatic actuator two outlet port one 4003a having its opposite end connecting to a corner wheel pneumatic actuator one inlet port 4002c.

[0170] An implied pneumatic conduit departs a corner wheel pneumatic actuator one outlet port one 4002a having affixment at its opposite most extension to a corner wheel linear actuator retraction port 1111. An implied pneumatic conduit interconnects a corner wheel pneumatic actuator one outlet port two 4002b to a shuttle valve inlet port two 4005b. An implied pneumatic conduit is joined at one end to a shuttle valve exit port 4006 having mechanical connection at its opposite end to a linear pressure regulator 4010 inlet port 4020b. Exiting a linear pressure regulator outlet port 4020a an implied pneumatic conduit provides mechanical connection to a corner wheel linear actuator extension port 1112 at its opposite end. Aforementioned pneumatic pressure source 4001 is connected to a cut off actuator inlet port 4010c by way of a pneumatic conduit 4001a. An additional pneumatic conduit 4001a unites a cut off actuator outlet port two 4010b to a cutting blade linear actuator extension port 1216b having rigid connection at both ends.

[0171] An additional pneumatic conduit 4001a is connected to a cut off actuator outlet port one 4010a conjoining a cutting blade linear actuator retraction port 1216c at its opposite end. An additional pneumatic conduit 4001a interconnects between pneumatic pressure source 4001 at one end and to a tape advance inlet port 4015c at its opposite end. A tape advance outlet port one 4015a is connected to a linear pressure regulator 801 inlet port 804 by the use of an implied pneumatic conduit having attachment between both devices being affixed at both ends. Tape advance outlet port one 4015a likewise employs the use of an additional pneumatic conduit 4001a to make connection with a material flow valve linear actuator retraction port 904 having supplemented connectivity to a tape advance linear actuator retraction port 121b. A linear pressure regulator 801 outlet port 803 interconnects via an implied pneumatic conduit to a shuttle valve two inlet port one 4025a. A shuttle valve two exit port 4025c is connected to a pneumatic conduit 4001a having the opposite end of said pneumatic conduit 4001a engaging a material flow valve linear actuator extension port 902. A shuttle valve two inlet port two 4025b provides connection to an implied pneumatic conduit whereby the opposite end of said implied pneumatic conduit is interconnected between a tape advance outlet port two 4015b and a tape advance linear actuator extension port 121a.Operation of the Invention

[0172] To best define the operation of the invention, reference to its various functions will proceed in the following manner. First, installing paper tape on the invention, then progressing to those controls and operational features governing the fluidic path of drywall compound as it combines with drywall tape to accomplish the drywall taping process.

[0173] Having set the invention on a firm flat surface, the operator engages retainment knob 117 (FIG. 1) in a counterclockwise fashion, rotating retainment knob 117 (FIG. 1) for two 360-degree rotations. The application technician then rotates rotational tape retainment arm 118 (FIG. 1) counterclockwise approximately 90 degrees. The application technician subsequently installs two new rolls of drywall tape (not shown) passing the center cavity of each drywall tape roll over tape holder one 107a (FIG. 1) and tape holder two 107b (FIG. 1).

[0174] At that point the rotational tape retainment arm 118 (FIG. 1) is rotated clockwise until the rotational tape retainment arm 118 (FIG. 1) makes contact with each retainment arm ledge 506 (FIG. 4) which is located on tape holder one 107a (FIG. 1) and tape holder two 107b (FIG. 1). The application technician promptly reengages retainment knob 117 (FIG. 1) in a clockwise manner until retainment knob 117 (FIG. 1) is seated firmly. The operator then pulls the drywall tape from the end of one of the tape rolls (not shown) and passes said drywall tape forward under secondary tape guide 119 (FIG. 1) forward through the rear mount tape channel 120a (FIG. 9). Receiving the referenced drywall tape from the forward side of the rear mount tape channel 120a (FIG. 9) the application technician inserts the provided drywall tape into tape guide passageway 122e (FIG. 10).

[0175] The application technician continues the action of inserting the drywall tape through the upper tape advance guide 122a (FIG. 10) and the corresponding lower tape advance guide 122b (FIG. 10) until it exits the forward end of the invention, approximately 5 inches. Upon exiting the upper tape advance guide 122a (FIG. 10) and the corresponding lower tape advance guide 122b (FIG. 10) the drywall tape passes under the material back flow stop 1108 (FIG. 10) and consequently enters the tape material spreading chamber 130 (FIG. 10).

[0176] Upon further insertion of drywall tape by the application technician the drywall tape exits the tape material spreading chamber 130 (FIG. 10) passing through the spreading chamber cover plate 130a (FIG. 9) outward, and forward of the invention. Upon completion of installing drywall tape to the apparatus, the application technician connects an external material source to the material flow valve inlet 307 (FIG. 1). Likewise, the application technician connects an external source of pressurized air to the pneumatic inlet port 306 (FIG. 2). Upon ensuring that the sources of material flow and pneumatic pressure are operating properly the application technician grips the invention in the following manner. The left hand of the application technician grips the rearward hand support 112 (FIG. 1) with the right hand of the application technician engaging the forward hand protector 106 (FIG. 1). The application technician then proceeds to the area of application to begin applying drywall tape to the drywall panel joints. When taping ceiling panel joints the application technician removes their right hand from the forward hand protector 106 (FIG. 1) and engages the central hand protector 127 (FIG. 1) with the right hand. The changing of right-hand location enables the application technician to reach higher and further distanced drywall joints without overextending their arms, shoulders, upper body and legs. Upon engaging the compound ladened drywall tape and embedment rollers 102a and 102b (FIG. 2) with the drywall panel surface, the application technician presses the green material flow actuator button 310 (FIG. 2) and initiates the combinational flow of drywall tape and drywall compound along the linear distance of the drywall panel joint. Engagement with the green material flow actuator button 310 (FIG. 2) allows for material flow through the material flow valve 113 (FIG. 1). By applying varied manual pressure to the green material flow actuator button 310 (FIG. 2) the linear pressure regulator 801 (FIG. 6) sends a variable amount of air pressure to compress the spring contained within material flow valve linear actuator 115 (FIG. 7). The variable pressure applied against the material flow valve linear actuator spring 903 (FIG. 7) via material flow valve linear actuator extension port 902 (FIG. 7) pushes against the pressure provided by the material flow valve linear actuator spring 903 (FIG. 7) opening the flow of material providing a volume increase as the green material flow actuator button 310 (FIG. 2) is further pressured by the application technician. The implementation of a spring within the structure of a double acting cylinder is unique in the art and is provided to ensure a controlled and decelerated linear action to open the material flow valve 113 (FIG. 1).

[0177] The lack of an internal spring within the material flow valve linear actuator 115 (FIG. 7) would engage the material flow valve 113 (FIG. 1) in a rapid, exclusively fully on or fully closed manner. Upon encountering the end of said drywall panel joint the application technician discontinues the forward motion of the invention while simultaneously releasing pressure from the green material flow actuator button 310 (FIG. 2) discontinuing the flow of drywall compound onto the drywall tape. The application technician accordingly presses on the red tape cut off button 312 (FIG. 2) which cuts the drywall tape utilizing the cutting blade linear actuator 1216 (FIG. 10) and cutting blade 1202 (FIG. 10) as it passes over the cutting die 1201 (FIG. 10). During the tape cutting process (referring to FIG. 21 through FIG. 26) cutting blade 1202 having cutting blade edge 1204 engages contact with cutting die 1201 in a linear manner moving laterally along both cutting edges delivering a single point of contact in a horizontal, linear, and vertical action providing rotational curvature engagement as the cutting blade linear actuator 1216 is being extended. The application technician then rolls the invention forward along the drywall joint laying the remaining length of drywall tape in place. To begin the taping process of a new drywall joint the application technician relocates to an appropriate location and presses the yellow tape advance button 311 (FIG. 2) which applies pneumatic pressure to the tape advance linear actuator 121 (FIG. 9) by way of tape advance linear actuator extension port 121a (FIG. 9) which extends the tape advance assembly 1300 (FIG. 11). As tape advance assembly 1300 (FIG. 11) proceeds forward a tape advance needle 1301 (FIG. 11) is forced down through the drywall tape as a result of pressure received by tape advance needle spring 1309 (FIG. 11). Simultaneously, as shown in FIG. 34 pneumatic pressure is also provided to shuttle valve two inlet port two 4025b (FIG. 34) during the tape advance process which directs the flow of air pressure extending the material flow valve linear actuator 115 (FIG. 34) therefore enabling the flow of drywall compound through material flow valve 113 (FIG. 1).

[0178] The drywall tape continues to advance until pressure is released from yellow tape advance button 311 (FIG. 2) whereby the tape advance linear actuator 121 (FIG. 9) retracts allowing the tape advance needle 1301 (FIG. 11) to release from the drywall tape and return to its retracted location. The flow of drywall compound discontinues upon release of the yellow tape advance button 311 (FIG. 2). When the application technician encounters a corner joint the application technician engages first corner wheel actuator button one 128a (FIG. 1) or second corner wheel actuator button two 128b (FIG. 1) to extend the corner wheel linear actuator 123 (FIG. 9). Corner wheel linear actuator 123 is provided with variable air pressure by way of a second linear pressure regulator noted as 4040 in FIG. 34.

[0179] Next, the application technician adjusts the linear pressure regulator 4010 (FIG. 34) to a setting conducive to applying the proper amount of pressure to the corner wheel 124 (FIG. 1) enabling the corner wheel 124 (FIG. 1) to mate the proper combination of pressure to embed the drywall tape without applying too much pressure to the corner wheel 124 (FIG. 1) which causes embedment roller one 102a (FIG. 1) and embedment roller two 102b to be pushed away from the drywall corner surfaces. The color references provided for the various buttons used in the taping process are conducive to a quickened learning process having a mental correlation to traffic signals. Green=Go Mud, Yellow=Slow Advance Tape, Red=Stop Tape-Cut.

[0180] During the process of applying drywall tape to drywall panel joints the application technician may choose to engage angular handle support 302 (FIG. 2) with the right hand rather than forward hand protector 106 as the non-perpendicular orientation of angle handle support 302 (FIG. 2) offers ergonomic benefits for different heights of application technicians encountering varying body, arm and wrist angles during the bending, reaching and walking which are encountered during the drywall taping procedure.

[0181] During the taping process there are occasions where the application technician may not come to a complete stop before cutting the drywall tape. This may cause the drywall tape to be jammed within the taping head structure 300 (FIG. 10). In this event, the application technician simply pulls the upper tape advance guide 122a (FIG. 10) and tape advance tab 122c (FIG. 10) to remove the upper tape advance guide 122a (FIG. 10) and the lower tape advance guide 122b (FIG. 10) rearward from the taping head structure 300 (FIG. 10). At that point the assembly can be separated to easily remove the jammed tape. The pieces are reassembled and inserted back into the taping head structure 300 (FIG. 10), new drywall tape is reinjected back into the apparatus and the taping process resumes.

[0182] The invention provides an additional benefit to the application technician in its ability for embedment rollers 102a and 102b (FIG. 2) to absorb shock, providing an ergonomically smoother operation of the invention. FIG. 27 provides visual confirmation of the shock absorbing assembly which is fitted between taper housing side one 320a and taper housing side two 320b. As embedment rollers 102a and 102b encounter various impact conditions, embedment roller base 1211 moves accordingly, engaging the spring action of embedment roller base spring one 1213a and embedment roller base spring two 1213b which may expand or contract in communication with fixed embedment retraction bar 1214 depending on the type and direction of said impacting event.

[0183] Referring to FIG. 33, any of the actuator frames 105a (FIG. 1) 105b (FIG. 1) or 303 (FIG. 2) may be altered in horizontal orientation by simply removing the actuator button associated with the appropriate actuator frame, move the pneumatic actuator aside and loosen the rotational fasteners 105g. The operating technician then grips the prototype appropriately and sets the operating thumb lightly upon the upper face of the actuator frame, rotating said actuator frame until a comfortable alliance is achieved. The rotational fasteners, pneumatic actuator and actuator button are then replaced and tightened accordingly.Description and Operation of Alternative Embodiments

[0184] FIG. 35 depicts a sectioned apparatus 4100 comprising a sectioned taper end 4100a, a sectioned taper forward mid-section 4100b, a sectioned taper rear mid-section 4100c, and a sectioned handle section 4100d. FIG. 36 provides a graphic depiction of a shortened taper applicator 4200. A sectioned member of attachment 4200a is noted (FIG. 36). Also provided is a relocated tape holder 4200b (FIG. 36) which is attached to the rearward end of an alternative structure. The handle assembly may be sectioned in various locations to provide a reconfiguration of the handle structure (FIG. 35). By providing independent structural elements such as sectioned taper end 4100a, sectioned taper forward mid-section 4100b, sectioned taper rear mid-section 4100c, and sectioned handle section 4100d, elements of the alternative embodiment structure may be temporarily abandoned in lieu of other accessory items which may be incorporated. By removing the sectioned taper rear mid-section 4100c and connecting the sectioned handle section 4100d directly to sectioned taper forward mid-section 4100b (assembly not shown) the overall length of the handle structure is reduced significantly. This allows taping drywall joints in confined areas such as closets and under stairways to be significantly easier and faster.

[0185] The addition of tape holder 4200b (FIG. 36) allows for the relocation of a tape roll (not shown) to maintain geometric compatibility with the sectioned taper end 4100a of the device (FIG. 36). A sectioned member of attachment 4200a (FIG. 36) can be provided between any of the aforementioned sectioned components and in any direction. The sectioned member of attachment 4200a has rigid tubing made of a metallic substance which is fitted within one or more of the handle tubing structures. The corresponding handle tube associated with the metallic tube secures the ridged tubing within its handle structure by use of a threaded thumb screw. Any way of connection may be used which accomplishes assembly.

[0186] FIG. 37 provides the reviewer with a graphic representation of an extended taper applicator 4300. An extended mast coupling 4300a is depicted which may be of any length and may be used in any location within the alternative embodiment, though standard use of the extended mast coupling 4300a would be used between the sectioned taper end 4100a and sectioned taper forward mid-section 4100b.

[0187] Having illustrated the present invention, it should be understood that various adjustments and versions might be implemented without venturing away from the essence of the present invention. Further, it should be understood that the present invention is not solely limited to the invention as described in the embodiments above, but further comprises any and all embodiments within the scope of this application.

[0188] The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present invention to the precise forms disclosed, and obviously many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching. The exemplary embodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the present invention and its practical application, to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the present invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

Claims

1. A pneumatic assisted applicator for drywall tape comprising:a material chamber tube;a pneumatic conduit tube;a material flow valve disposed in communication with said material chamber tube;a tape holder assembly configured to hold at least one roll of drywall tape;a tape guide system for guiding said drywall tape through the taper;a material spreading chamber for combining drywall compound with said drywall tape;a cutting mechanism for cutting said drywall tape; anda control system for regulating material flow and advancement of said drywall tape.

2. The pneumatic assisted applicator for drywall tape of claim 1, wherein the tape holder assembly comprises:a first tape holder and a second tape holder;a rotational tape retainment arm; anda retainment knob for securing said rotational tape retainment arm.

3. The pneumatic assisted applicator for drywall tape of claim 1, wherein the tape guide system comprises:a secondary tape guide;a rear mount tape channel;an upper tape advance guide; anda lower tape advance guide.

4. The pneumatic assisted applicator for drywall tape of claim 1, wherein the cutting mechanism comprises:a cutting blade;a cutting die;a cutting blade linear actuator; anda cutting blade riding shoulder.

5. The pneumatic assisted applicator for drywall tape of claim 1, wherein the control system comprises:a green material flow actuator button;a yellow tape advance button; anda red tape cut off button.

6. The pneumatic assisted applicator for drywall tape of claim 1, further comprising:a rearward hand support;a forward hand protector; anda central hand protector.

7. The pneumatic assisted applicator for drywall tape of claim 1, wherein the material flow valve is controlled by a material flow valve linear action equipped with an internal spring.

8. A method of operating a pneumatic assisted applicator for drywall tape, the method comprising:installing drywall tape rolls onto tape holders of the pneumatic assisted applicator;threading drywall tape through a tape guide system of the pneumatic assisted applicator;connecting an external material source and a pneumatic pressure source to the drywall taper;engaging the pneumatic assisted applicator with a drywall joint;activating material flow by pressing a material flow actuator button;advancing the pneumatic assisted applicator along the drywall joint to apply tape and compound;releasing the material flow actuator button to stop material flow;cutting the drywall tape by pressing a tape cut off button; andadvancing fresh tape for a new joint by pressing a tape advance button.

9. The method of claim 8, further comprising:adjusting material flow rate by varying pressure on the material flow actuator button;engaging a cutting blade with a cutting die in a linear manner, providing a single point of contact in horizontal, linear, and vertical actions with rotational curvature engagement;forcing a tape advance needle through the drywall tape as the tape advance assembly moves forward;providing pneumatic pressure, enabling flow of drywall compound through a material flow valve;engaging a corner wheel actuator button to extend a corner wheel linear actuator;adjusting a linear pressure regulator to apply proper pressure to a corner wheel; andembedding the drywall tape in corner joints using the corner wheel.

10. The method of claim 8, wherein the material flow actuator button is green, the tape advance button is yellow, and the tape cut off button is red, providing a visual correlation to traffic signals for ease of operation.

11. The method of claim 8, further comprising:engaging an angular handle support with a hand of the application technician to provide ergonomic benefits during the drywall taping procedure.

12. The method of claim 9, further comprising:removing an upper tape advance guide and a lower tape advance guide from a taping head structure to clear jammed drywall tape;reassembling the guides;reinserting drywall tape to resume the taping process;absorbing shock during operation using embedment rollers connected to an embedment roller base with springs;adjusting the horizontal orientation of actuator frames by:removing an actuator button associated with an actuator frame;loosening rotational fasteners;rotating the actuator frame to a comfortable position; andreplacing and tightening the rotational fasteners, pneumatic actuator, and actuator button.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein cutting the drywall tape comprises:engaging a cutting blade with a cutting die in a linear manner, providing a single point of contact in horizontal, linear, and vertical actions with rotational curvature engagement; androuting pneumatic conduits through pneumatic pass-through orifices in a taping head support bracket to control various pneumatic components of the robotic drywall taper.

14. A pneumatic assisted applicator apparatus for drywall tape comprising:a handheld structure having a secondary member for achieving an extended reach capability;an independent housing structure being in parallel vicinity to a material sleeve;wherein said handheld structure contains a multiplicity of drywall tape roll holders;a member of containment for a drywall tape roll, said drywall tape roll containing drywall tape;a member for mounting said drywall tape roll;a replaceable member for retaining said drywall tape, said replaceable member for retaining said drywall tape having a rotational capability;a removable assembly for guiding said drywall tape through a taping head structure;a handle affixed in a non-perpendicular manner in relation to a longitudinal axis of said handheld structure;wherein said handheld structure is equipped with a singular offset allocation to compensate for a half width of said drywall tape roll;a rolling member, said rolling member having a cushioned method of connection;a member for engaging the extension and retraction of a corner wheel, said corner wheel having a double acting aspect employing a rear mounted orientation;a member for controlling regulated pneumatic pressure to extend said corner wheel;a member for supplying air pressure to an actuating cylinder to return a corner wheel assembly to a retracted position;a member for extending said corner wheel employing a multiplicity of button impelled pneumatic actuators;a member to provide a variable flow of drywall compound onto said drywall tape;a cut off blade having direct connection to a pneumatic actuator rod;a tape cut off blade assembly having primary and secondary edges with said primary edge making contact with said cut off blade secondary edge of a cutting die in a linear manner moving laterally along both cutting edges of the cut off blade assembly producing a single point of contact as it transverses linearly along the cutting blade contact edge having a rotational motion as the cutting blade actuating cylinder is being extended;a member for cutting drywall tape that provides spring tension to a cutting blade being pushed against a cutting die;a member for guiding drywall tape which mounts to the rear segment of a linear actuator;a member for tape advance which incorporates the use of a double acting pneumatic actuator which simultaneously deposits a volume of drywall compound onto the advancing drywall tape; anda member for mounting a linear actuator to extend said drywall tape utilizing a nose mount extension.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, further comprising: a member for engaging drywall tape having direct engagement with an extending shaft of a pneumatic linear actuator.

16. The apparatus of claim 15, further comprising: a member for drywall tape engagement which contains a rotational needle contained within a rotating horizontal shaft.

17. The apparatus of claim 14, further comprising: a member for tape advance needle engagement having a spring action having a horizontal mating plane.

18. The apparatus of claim 14, further comprising: a member for providing an easier memorization method having a color-coded button actuator system having red for cutting drywall tape, yellow for advancing tape and green for initiating the flow of drywall compound to afford an easier quicker learning curve.

19. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein said handheld structure allows for the ability to alter an angular plane of an actuator button.

20. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein said tape cut off blade assembly has a pneumatically actuated self-sharpening feature.

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